At a Glance
- Netflix postponed Alex Honnold‘s live free-solo climb of Taipei 101 by one day due to weather.
- The event was moved from Friday, January 23, to Saturday, January 24, at 8 PM ET / 5 PM PT.
- Safety remains the top priority for the climber and crew.
- Why it matters: Fans must adjust their schedules, and the event highlights the importance of safety in extreme sports.
Intro paragraph
Netflix postponed Alex Honnold‘s live free-solo climb of Taipei 101 by one day because of weather, with safety cited as the top priority. The event, originally set for Friday, January 23, was moved to Saturday, January 24, after a last-minute weather update. Fans now have to wait a day for the climber’s daring ascent.
Postponement Explained
The live event, a first-ever free-solo climb of a skyscraper, was scheduled to air at 8 PM ET / 5 PM PT. The original plan had viewers anticipating a record-setting free-solo ascent. The change was announced less than an hour before the scheduled start.
Netflix Announcement
In a statement posted online, Netflix said, “Due to weather, we are unable to proceed.” The company emphasized that safety is paramount and that the decision was taken in consultation with local authorities. The statement also thanked viewers for their understanding.
Weather and Schedule
The new time is 8 PM ET / 5 PM PT, and the postponement was made to ensure the climber’s safety in Taiwan’s capital. Meteorologists warned of sudden winds and rain that could jeopardize the climb. The updated schedule is listed on Netflix’s platform.
Safety First: The Two-Tick System
Producers used a two-tick system to decide whether to go ahead, with the first tick being Honnold’s own readiness. The second tick involved a review of any external factors that might compromise safety. The system ensures both the climber’s confidence and external conditions are considered before the climb begins.
Explanation of Two-Tick System
The first tick checks that Honnold feels good about the climb, even though it is a live broadcast with many TV crew around. If he is not feeling it, the team has no pressure to proceed. The second tick allows the team to stop the climb if safety is at risk.
Quote from Grant Mansfield
Grant Mansfield, with Plimsoll Productions, explained that Honnold is under no pressure to climb if he’s not feeling it, and that the team has the right to stop the climb if conditions are unfavorable. He said, “He won’t be on that building unless we’re all comfortable.” Mansfield emphasized the priority of safety over spectacle.
Honnold’s Perspective
Honnold has long wanted to scale Taipei 101, and he shared his feelings about the climb on Netflix’s Tudum. He said he would feel nervous at the bottom, that his 30 years of climbing would make the experience different. He also noted that the climb would be his first on a man-made structure, adding to the challenge.
Honnold’s Quotes About Nervousness, Experience, Life on Line
He said, “I’m sure I’ll feel a little nervous at the bottom, just because it’s something totally new and I don’t know how it’s going to feel.” He added, “My life is on the line – I don’t really care who’s watching. I care about doing what I’m doing and doing it well.”
Honnold’s Comments About Building Safety and Enjoyment
In a conversation with CNN, he noted that the building’s balconies and geometry reduce the fatality risk, making it safer than many rock-climbing routes. He believes that the building’s design, with its many balconies, creates multiple safe landing zones. He also wants to smile, enjoy himself, and have a good experience.
What’s Next for Skyscraper Live
The event will air on Netflix on Saturday, Jan. 24, at 8 PM ET / 5 PM PT, and viewers can expect a live, unscripted climb. The production team will also provide live commentary from seasoned climbers to give viewers context. Netflix will stream the event live, allowing fans worldwide to watch in real time.
Schedule Details, Broadcast Info
The updated schedule is listed on Netflix’s platform, and the broadcast will follow the same format as originally planned, with real-time commentary and behind-the-scenes footage. The new time ensures that weather conditions are safe for both the climber and the crew. The event promises to deliver the same adrenaline and awe that fans expect from Honnold’s feats.
Closing Remarks
With safety as the priority, fans of Honnold’s daring ascents can look forward to a rescheduled, thrilling live experience that showcases the climber’s skill and the iconic Taipei 101. The rescheduled broadcast promises to deliver the same adrenaline and awe that fans expect from Honnold’s feats. Viewers worldwide can now tune in on Saturday for the unforgettable climb.
